Portrait of a Man with His Hand on His Chest

Attributed to Corneille de Lyon

Created:
Movement:
1548
Renaissance
key Notes:
Renaissance portraiture, Introspective gesture
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Dimensions:
6 15/16 x 5 13/16 in. (17.7 x 14.7 cm)
medium:
Oil on wood
story of the work:

"Portrait of a Man with His Hand on His Chest" is an oil on panel painting attributed to the French artist Corneille de Lyon, created between 1540 and 1545. The work exemplifies the Northern Renaissance portraiture style, characterized by its attention to detail and psychological depth. The identity of the sitter remains unknown, which is common in many portraits from this period. Corneille de Lyon was known for his ability to capture the likeness and character of his subjects, often employing a rich color palette and intricate textures. The painting is notable for its composition, with the subject's hand placed on his chest, suggesting a gesture of confidence or contemplation. The work reflects the cultural and artistic developments in France during the 16th century, particularly in the realm of portraiture. The painting is currently housed in a private collection, and its provenance prior to this is not well-documented.

Description of the work:

"Portrait of a Man with His Hand on His Chest," attributed to Corneille de Lyon, is an oil on wood painting created between 1540 and 1545. The composition features a male figure depicted in a three-quarter pose, with his right hand placed on his chest, suggesting a gesture of confidence or contemplation. The subject is dressed in a dark, richly textured garment, which contrasts with the lighter tones of his skin. The background is a muted, neutral color that enhances the focus on the figure. The artist employs a meticulous attention to detail, particularly in the rendering of facial features, which exhibit a sense of realism and individuality. The use of light and shadow creates a subtle three-dimensionality, contributing to the lifelike quality of the portrait. The overall composition reflects the conventions of Renaissance portraiture, emphasizing both the status and personality of the sitter.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Portrait of a Man with His Hand on His Chest